Henri Alleg
Journalist and author of "La Question"
Born in 1921, a journalist focused on colonial Algeria. In 1957, captured by French paratroopers during the Algerian War, subjected to torture while writing articles that condemned the use of violence against Algerians. Authored "La Question," detailing his experiences and the broader context of torture in the war. The book became influential in raising awareness about human rights abuses. After the war, continued to write about Algeria's struggle for independence and the consequences of colonialism. Later lived in France and contributed to various publications.
Wrote "La Question" about torture during the Algerian War
Worked as a journalist in post-colonial Algeria
Other People Born on July 20th
Mike Ilitch
Businessman and Detroit sports owner
Born
July 20th, 1929 96 years ago
Died
February 10th, 2017 8 years ago — 87 years old
Founded Little Caesars Pizza, which became a major national chain. Owned the Detroit Tigers, winning the 1984 World Series. Also owned the Detroit Red Wings, securing four Stanley Cup championships in 1997, 1998, 2002, and 2008. Active in various community initiatives and supported numerous charitable organizations.
Continue ReadingAntoine Vermette
Canadian ice hockey player with Cup win
Born
July 20th, 1982 43 years ago
Born in 1982, one played as a centerman in the National Hockey League (NHL) for teams including the Ottawa Senators, Phoenix Coyotes, and Chicago Blackhawks. Achieved significant success during time with the Blackhawks, winning the Stanley Cup in 2015. Known for strong faceoff skills and contributions in playoff situations, one was also part of the Senators team that reached the Eastern Conference Finals in 2007. One retired from professional hockey after the 2018 season, concluding a career that spanned over a decade.
Continue ReadingPete Hamilton
Race car driver, Daytona 500 winner
Born
July 20th, 1942 83 years ago
Died
2017 8 years ago — 75 years old
A race car driver from the United States, accomplished on the NASCAR circuit. Achieved significant success during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Won the prestigious Daytona 500 in 1970, solidifying a place in racing history. Competed for various teams throughout a career that spanned more than a decade, showing proficiency on both dirt and asphalt tracks.
Continue ReadingBelaid Abdessalam
Algerian Prime Minister
Born
July 20th, 1928 97 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 92 years old
Belaid Abdessalam served as the Prime Minister of Algeria during a critical period in the 1990s. His tenure included navigating the country through a challenging civil conflict. Abdessalam played a significant role in political reforms and economic strategies aimed at stabilization. Prior to his role as Prime Minister, he held various governmental positions, contributing to Algeria's political landscape and governance during a time of national turmoil.
Continue ReadingPeter Palumbo
Businessman and art collector
Born
July 20th, 1935 90 years ago
An English businessman and art collector, played a significant role in the development of the arts scene in the UK. Held a peerage as Baron Palumbo and was actively involved in various art institutions. Contributed to the establishment of galleries and supported numerous artists during his career. His collection included a range of contemporary artworks, and he served on the boards of several cultural organizations, advocating for the importance of the arts in society.
Continue ReadingHeather Chasen
English actress with stage and screen roles
Born
July 20th, 1927 98 years ago
Died
2020 5 years ago — 93 years old
An English actress, recognized for a prolific career in theatre, television, and film. Gained recognition for performances in productions such as 'The Forsyte Saga' and 'The Saint'. Appeared in various British television series and worked in repertory theatre. Spent several decades in the industry, showcasing versatility across different media.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 17th
Maud Menten
Canadian physician and biochemist
Born
March 20th, 1879 146 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1960 65 years ago — 81 years old
Contributions to biochemistry included work on enzyme kinetics and histochemistry. Collaborated with Leonor Michaelis to describe the Michaelis-Menten equation, a foundational principle in enzyme kinetics. Menten's research also advanced understanding of enzyme reactions and tissue staining techniques. Held a faculty position at the University of Toronto and published many scientific papers throughout a career spanning several decades.
Continue ReadingÁlvaro Obregón
Mexican General, 39th President
Born
February 19th, 1880 145 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1928 97 years ago — 48 years old
A prominent Mexican general and politician, played a critical role in the Mexican Revolution and later served as the 39th President of Mexico from 1920 to 1924. Oversaw significant reforms in land and labor policies during the presidency. Strengthened the nation after years of conflict and worked towards stabilizing the country. His administration focused on the foundation of a modern state, which included education programs and infrastructure projects. Actively engaged in foreign relations to improve Mexico's standing internationally, particularly with the United States.
Continue ReadingDavid White
Actor in 'Bewitched'
Born
April 4th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2013 12 years ago — 97 years old
An American actor, best recognized for the role of Larry Tate on the television series 'Bewitched'. This character served as the advertising agency partner of Darrin Stephens and appeared in numerous episodes throughout the show's run from 1964 to 1972. David White also had roles in various films and television shows, enhancing his presence in the entertainment industry. His earlier career included acting in Broadway productions, showcasing significant talent in both comedic and dramatic roles.
Continue ReadingWalter Cronkite
Journalist and news anchor for CBS
Born
November 4th, 1916 109 years ago
Died
July 17th, 2009 16 years ago — 92 years old
A prominent journalist and television news anchor, played a key role in shaping broadcast journalism in the United States. Served as the anchor for the CBS Evening News from 1962 to 1981, providing coverage of significant events such as the Moon landing and the Vietnam War. Was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1981 for contributions to journalism and democracy. His signature sign-off, 'And that's the way it is,' became iconic in American media.
Continue ReadingThomas McIlwraith
Politician and 8th Premier of Queensland
Born
May 17th, 1835 190 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1900 125 years ago — 65 years old
Born in Scotland, later migrated to Australia. Served as the 8th Premier of Queensland, holding office from 1879 to 1880 and again from 1883 to 1888. Played a key role in the development of the state's railway system, advocating for infrastructure improvements. Engaged in effective land reform policies. Contributed to the expansion of Queensland's economy through various initiatives.
Continue ReadingDraža Mihailović
Serbian general and resistance leader
Born
April 27th, 1893 132 years ago
Died
July 17th, 1946 79 years ago — 53 years old
A Serbian general and leader of the Chetnik movement during World War II. Mihailović opposed Axis forces and collaborated with Allied powers, primarily the British, in efforts to resist Nazi occupation in Yugoslavia. His forces engaged in guerrilla warfare against both German and Communist partisans. After the war, he faced charges of treason and was ultimately executed in 1946.
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